Auto-rickshaws in Mangaluru, once a convenient mode of public transportation, have become a luxury fraught with issues of overcharging and unavailability, particularly exacerbated during the rainy season. Netizens and residents alike have voiced their frustration over the unfair practices of auto drivers, who frequently hike prices beyond meter display rates.
Commuters, including students, senior citizens, and working professionals, express dismay at the common practice where auto drivers justify overcharging by citing difficulties in finding passengers for the return trip. This practice effectively passes on the burden of the driver’s commute to passengers, making trips expensive and unaffordable.
A concerned resident highlighted the deteriorating situation, noting instances where drivers demand extra payment after dropping passengers, refuse to use meters, or inflate prices citing lack of return passengers. During emergencies or rainy days, when reliance on autos peaks, these issues become particularly acute, affecting everyday life significantly.
Senior citizens emphasize the impact on their mobility, stating that exorbitant charges deter them from using autos altogether. They urge drivers to consider passenger constraints and affordability, particularly during monsoon when walking becomes challenging.
Residents argue for parity with taxi services, where one-way pricing is standard, questioning why auto-rickshaw fares should differ. They call for stringent actions by authorities to curb overcharging, suggesting permit revocations and strict penalties as deterrents.
The community urges the police department and concerned authorities to intervene decisively, ensuring fair and transparent pricing practices for auto-rickshaw services in Mangaluru.